Ajibade Aims for Glory as Super Falcons Target 10th WAFCON Title

Nigeria’s Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, has said the team is not just going to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) to compete — they are going to win it.

The tournament kicks off on 6 July in Morocco, with Nigeria drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria.

“We’re Going There to Win”

Ajibade, who led Nigeria at the 2024 Olympics, will now captain the team at Africa’s biggest women’s football tournament for the first time.

Speaking ahead of the competition, she said:

“Playing in Morocco again feels like a dream. It’s the biggest competition in Africa.
We’re not just showing up — we’re going to compete and win.”

Ajibade won the Golden Boot at the last WAFCON in 2022 and was part of the team that lifted the trophy in 2018. Now, she wants to lead Nigeria to a record 10th title.

Calm Under Pressure

At just 24 years old, Ajibade knows what it means to carry responsibility. But she’s taking it in her stride:

“It’s an honour to captain Nigeria. It’s a big responsibility, and I don’t take it lightly.
But honestly, I feel no pressure. I’ve learned to manage tough situations and use them to help the team.”

Super Falcons Ready for Battle

Nigeria are the most successful team in WAFCON history with nine titles, and the squad for 2025 is packed with both experience and exciting young talent.

• Asisat Oshoala, Francisca Ordega, and Osinachi Ohale bring years of experience.

• Chiamaka Nnadozie, named Africa’s best goalkeeper two years running, is a key figure in defence.

• Rising stars like Jennifer Echegini, Michelle Alozie, and Tosin Demehin add energy and flair.

In attack, Nigeria is stacked with firepower. Oshoala, Uchenna Kanu, Ifeoma Onumonu, and Toni Payne will look to score goals, while Ajibade’s pace and creativity will drive the team forward.

Confidence Boost from Warm-Up Matches

The Super Falcons come into the tournament in good form, following:

• A 0-0 draw against Portugal in Lisbon

• Wins over both Cameroon and Ghana

With $1 million up for grabs — the biggest prize ever for WAFCON — motivation is high.

Final Words

Ajibade and her teammates are clear: they are not going to Morocco for a holiday.
They’re there to bring the trophy home to Nigeria once again.

“We believe in ourselves. We know what we can do,” said Ajibade.
“It’s time to show it on the pitch.”